| CB300 F Engine, Suspension, Frame Info + More! |

Alright guys, back again and this time with the 2018 Honda CB300F. It seems like it was just yesterday that we went over the details on last year’s CB300F and here we are again, time flies when you’re having fun though right? Let’s start off with the most common question when a new model year motorcycle is released and that is “Did they change anything?”. When comparing the 2018 CB300F VS 2017 CB300F changes, there are none except for colors. Last year we had Red and Matte Silver but this year for the 2018 CB300F we have Chromosphere Red which is the first time that color has been offered on the CB300F since it was originally introduced to the model lineup. The only downfall though is that now for 2018 we only have one color option to choose from so if you don’t like that shade of red then you’re up a creek without a paddle. Sadly.

2018 CB300F vs CBR300R – What’s the Difference between them? Let’s start things off with a quick breakdown of what the CB300F is in comparison to the CBR300R. Is the CBR300R faster than the CB300F? You would think that the CBR version of the 300cc bike would be the faster of the two models as in the past Honda has de-tuned the CB model variants when compared to their long-lost siblings. That isn’t the case with the CB300F vs CBR300R and also for that matter, the same goes for its big brothers – the CB500F vs CBR500R. So now that we’ve gotten the engine and performance details out of the way on the CB300F vs CBR300R we’ll move onto the frame and suspension side of things. The CB300F shares the exact same frame and suspension pieces as the CBR300R, identical to the T. They share the same rake, wheelbase, seat height, fuel tank capacity and the list goes on. Now, lets get to where they do differ from each other… On the CBR you have a clip-on ‘style’ handlebar setup similar to a true CBR supersport bike (but a lot higher) whereas the CB300F has your standard or should I say ‘typical’ style handlebar setup which are a tad wider and also taller which changes the entire ‘riders triangle’ which puts you sitting more upright on the CB300F when compared against the CBR300R. The other key difference between these two models are their aesthetics AKA – styling. The CB300F gives you that naked street fighter / sport bike look whereas the CBR300R gives you more of the true CBR supersport sport bike styling. Will you be able to tell a difference at how the CB300F and CBR300R ride down the road? Yes… The CBR300R does have a hint more wind protection at speed thanks to its small windscreen and adding to that you are hunched over a little more too which will help the wind pass over you whereas the CB300F has absolutely nothing in the form of wind protection and with you sitting more upright, the wind is going to hit your chest like a big sail. The upside though is that this problem can be fixed rather easily thanks to many windscreen / windshield options that are out there on the market for the CB300F.

This lightweight and nimble-handling naked bike offers plenty of fun for beginners and experienced motorcyclists. Featuring a 300-class engine, the new CB300F carries a dash of attitude and independence along with its versatile creds. Whether you’re commuting, zipping around town or headed out for a weekend ride, its roomy ergonomics, great handling and broad powerband make every ride a blast. Thanks to its affordable price tag, adding on a few Honda Genuine Accessories is easy—a simple way to give it that extra bit of flair and make it uniquely your own.

Thanks to it’s single–cylinder engine configuration, the CB300F is super narrow. Combine that with its low 30.7–inch seat height and light 348–pound curb weight, and you have the recipe for a bike that offers excellent maneuverability in the city. Plus, putting your feet down in parking lots or at stoplights is a lot easier.

– Honda CB300F Video Review of Specs –

Hondas are famous for their engines, and they’ve given the CB300F a great one. First, the facts: it’s a single–cylinder with fuel injection, double–overhead cams and a counterbalancer. But here’s the genius part: Because it’s a single, it offers the kind of torque and midrange power that’s well suited for all levels of riders.

The CB300F rocks when it comes time to fill up. With a fuel economy estimate of 78 MPG, you’re more likely to be laughing at high gas prices. The CB300F can carry a passenger and is freeway legal. Get all the versatility you need.

2018 CB300F Models / Options & Colors:

2018 CB300F

CB300F Colors: Chromosphere Red

2018 CB300F ABS(ABS = Anti-Lock Brakes)

CB300F ABS Colors: Chromosphere Red

2018 CB300F Prices / MSRP:

2017 CB300F – TBA

2017 CB300F ABS – TBA

2018 CB300F Release Date:

The 2018 Honda CB300F is scheduled to start releasing to dealers in January of 2018.

Countering extra vibration from the longer stroke, the balancer shaft is heavier and the engine’s frame mounts are stronger. The PGM-FI fuel injection – with 38 mm throttle bore – has been remapped with a focus on crisp throttle response across the rev range. A recently changed-up CBR500R-inspired muffler design with larger internal volume adds “big-bike” style and a slightly different exhaust note.

The CB300F’s single-cylinder engine offers many benefits for any rider. Because the number of moving parts is kept to an absolute minimum, the engine is more fuel efficient, and small details like the low-friction piston rings and iridium spark plug help reduce running costs.

Acceleration was greatly improved thanks to the larger capacity,and the six-speed gearbox’s final drive ratio has been lengthened for more efficient highway speed cruising when compared to the older discontinued CBR250R. The 2018 CB300F MPG rating comes in at 78 MPG (30.2km/l), it can cover over 230 miles on one fill-up of the 3.4 gallon fuel tank.

The mechanical simplicity of the engine reduces servicing costs (oil changes every 8,000 miles is hard to beat!) – another essential element in creating a problem-free ownership experience. It compact size also helps create a bike that is lighter and more manageable than a multi-cylinder, and allows it be positioned perfectly within the chassis for an ideal front / rear weight distribution.

2018 CB300F Performance Numbers:

2018 CB300F Horsepower: 30.5 @ 8,500 RPM (22.7 kW)

2018 CB300F Torque: 19.9 lb ft @ 7,250 RPM (27 Nm)

2018 CB300F MPG: 78 miles per gallon (30.2 km / l)

Want more details on the 2018 CB300F engine? Make sure to check out the Development section near the bottom of the page!

CB300F Frame / Chassis

A steel diamond twin-spar frame provides the backbone of the CB300F’s chassis and features a rigidity balance carefully tuned for both a sporty dynamic in corners and stability at speed. Rake is set at 25°05′with trail of 98mm and wheelbase of 1,380mm / 54.3 inches; curb weight comes in at 348 pounds.

ABS is an available option on the 2018 CB300F: lightweight 2-channel ABS is married to the front 296mm disc/two piston caliper and rear 220mm disc/single-piston caliper, for powerful, yet controllable, braking.

Overview of Key Features

Disc Brakes |

The CB300F features front and rear hydraulic discs for excellent stopping power and brake feel. The single front 296mm and 220mm rear hydraulic discs helps keep things simple and lowers unsprung weight, too.

Anti-Lock Braking System (optional) |

ABS—available on the CB300F—can be a big help in making controlled stops in less-than-ideal conditions, like on wet pavement or when there’s sand or other debris on the road. It’s the perfect choice whether you’re using your new bike as a commuter or just riding it for fun, since it helps you stop with added confidence.

Fuel injection means the CB300F starts right up, even in cold weather. Compared to a carbureted bike, it also helps reduce emissions and enhance performance and fuel efficiency. PGM-FI fuel injection produces crisp throttle response throughout the rev range.

The (PGM-FI) system continuously monitors several variables to ensure the correct fuel mixture for the existing riding and atmospheric conditions, thereby delivering optimal performance and remarkably crisp throttle response over a wide range of operating conditions, plus increased fuel economy.

The PGM-FI system incorporates an Idle Air Control Valve (IACV) to minimize torque reaction and smooth responses to small changes in throttle position. This is accomplished through gradual reductions of air and fuel intake when the throttle is opened and closed.

Counterbalance Shaft |

Because it features a counterbalancer, the CB300F engine is a smooth runner. You get the narrow overall width and power advantages of a single along with the smoothness of a multi-cylinder bike.

Single-Cylinder Engine |

A single is the perfect choice for a bike like the CB300F. It’s light, simple, provides excellent fuel efficiency and features a broad powerband with plenty of low-revving torque—just what you want in your first motorcycle. Engine displaces 286cc for responsive power throughout the rev range. Derived from the CBR250R engine, a new crankshaft and connecting rod create a longer engine stroke (up to 63mm from 55mm) to add 37cc of displacement.

The CB300F’s single-cylinder engine produces a broad torque curve with peak torque generated at an easily accessible 7000 rpm. Peak horsepower kicks in at 8500 rpm, well before the 10,500-rpm redline—further testimony to the wide spread of power. Such power characteristics facilitate smooth, responsive operation while also returning impressive fuel economy.

The crankshaft runs in plain bearings for quieter operation, and the big end of the connecting rod spins in a low-friction needle bearing.

Because it features a counterbalancer, the CB300F engine is a smooth runner. You get the narrow overall width and power advantages of a single along with the smoothness of a multi-cylinder bike. The engine countershaft sits lower than the mainshaft to further reduce the front-to-back engine dimension. It’s located so close to the crankshaft that the balancer weight passes between the two crank weights to keep the engine as compact as possible while boosting mass centralization.

Transmission |

The six-speed transmission works in concert with the engine’s broad power delivery to produce quick acceleration plus admirable fuel economy during top-gear cruising.

Narrow Seat & Low Seat Height |

A low 30.7-inch seat height does more than help make sure the CB300F fits a wide range of riders. It makes it easier to put your feet down at stoplights and in parking lots—a big confidence builder. Plus, we’ll offer a Honda Genuine Accessory seat that’ll lower seat height even further!

Pro-Link® Rear Suspension |

The CB300F uses a single-shock preload- adjustable rear suspension that not only gives you a smooth ride, but helps enhance handling as well, just as on some of our larger sport models.

Under-seat Storage |

Removing the rear passenger seat provides a lockable area to throw a map, gloves, or a spare set of sunglasses.

Passenger Ready |

A separate passenger seat, integrated grab rail, and standard passenger footpegs mean you can take a friend along when you go riding–another example of the CB300F’s versatility.

2018 CB300F Honda Signature Accessories
Available Accessory Seat is more than 1 inch lower than standard seat for easier reach to the ground.

2018 CB300F Development

Engine

Below, we’ll dive deeper into the minds of the genius’ that designed / engineered this gem of an engine that’s being used in the 2018 CB300F. Is it the highest output engine in its class? Nope. If you’ve ever ridden the CBR300R or CBR250R and CRF250L that both use the same powerplant, you have to admit that this engine is quite the little package and hard to believe it’s a single-cylinder with just how smooth it is. If you’re anything like me, I love to read the nitty-gritty details that go into a bike as I find it rather fascinating at what all it does take to bring a bike to market. I think we forget a lot of the time at just how much work goes into bringing us these toys that we all love to ride so I’m going to start adding these “Development” sections to most of my 2018 Motorcycle Reviews so everyone can get all of the info available if they want to take the time to soak it all in.

The CB300F engine was developed by aiming at a global single-cylinder engine that transcends regions, while being sporty and eco-friendly at the same time, with a look ahead at the next generation.

To fulfill basic performance requirements as a sport bike while setting higher targets for environmental performance, a DOHC was chosen as the valve system. DOHC improves combustion efficiency by reducing the weight of the reciprocating portion of the valves. This selection also allows us to freely choose the included valve angle, the port shape, and the shape of the combustion chamber. The choice of DOHC contributes to improved product appeal as a sports bike as well as to performance.

For the valve system, a roller rocker arm was adopted by a DOHC engine motorcycle for the first time in the world. A low-friction valve train with a smaller cylinder head was achieved through an ultra-compact layout for the roller rocker arm. The choice of a shim design for valve tappet adjustment reduced the rocker arm weight, while friction was reduced by setting the valve spring load to a low level. For better maintainability, the shim can be replaced without removing the camshaft.

To reduce blow-by gas and oil consumption, a spiny sleeve was adopted for the cylinder sleeve. Small spines have been added to the outer surface to improve cooling performance and help reduce distortion of the inner cylinder’s shape. In addition, centrifugal casting allowed a thin, uniform wall thickness, which aids weight reduction. For emission measures, an O² sensor is combined with the built-in air induction (AI) system and a catalyzer is fitted inside the exhaust pipe to comply with Euro 3 emission regulation. The power unit complies with other environmental regulations such as Thailand’s sixth emission standards, for which the evaporator system (evaporative emission control system) was put in place for the Thai model.

In the area of engine performance, a short-stroke engine was chosen to improve responsiveness in making the bike’s sporty characteristics easy to handle. The resulting bore stroke is on a par with that of CBR1000RR, Honda’s high performance, super sport bike. In designing the crankshaft, no efforts were spared to reduce weight in order to lower the inertial mass while achieving additional weight reduction in the piston and connecting rod. Sufficient cooling performance was ensured by conducting a high-efficiency cooling water flow analysis based on a CAE simulation to give higher output. To ensure that output characteristics are stress-free and powerful from low to high rpm ranges, charging efficiency was improved. Additional measures for higher efficiency include straightening from the air cleaner to the exhaust pipe. Valve stems have been made thinner, although valve diameters are large for both intake and exhaust. This valve design is coupled with a wide opening angle and a high-lift cam to improve intake/exhaust efficiency. To achieve output characteristics that are easy to handle at low speed and smooth rev-up at high rpm, the intake/exhaust systems were thoroughly analyzed to adopt the ideal port/pipe length and bore size.

Honda’s original new-generation crankshaft mechanism was used to realize an engine full of high-quality feel while maintaining high output.

First, a metal bearing (half-split, press-fit) was chosen for the crank journal for the first time on a Honda single-cylinder motorcycle. A cast-iron bush was selected for the crank bearing section in order to improve the rigidity of the crankcase housing and control changes crank journal’s oil clearance arising from thermal expansion. In this way, the design takes productivity into account with an eye toward a global roll-out, while improving quietness at the same time.

Second, while using a built-up type crankshaft that allows the big end of the connecting rod to be used as a low-friction roller bearing, the optimal crank web shape was realized as a result of a computer analysis of strength and rigidity. This ensures high rigidity on a par with a solid type crankshaft.

Crankshaft rigidity is enhanced further and quietness is improved by placing the balancer’s driving gear on the right cover inside the clutch housing -a design that narrows the distance between the left/right crank bearings and places a ball bearing at the tip of the crankshaft right side. For vibration, a primary balancer was chosen to produce a high-quality single-cylinder engine.

Frame / Chassis

Honda’s development objectives for the frame and chassis include fusing flexibility with a rigid feel at a high level through mass centralization and satisfying the sporty feel a rider gets the moment they mount the bike. Development also aimed to provide a basic riding performance that covers body size, dimensions, driving stability, and riding position; these factors were optimized for riders of all kinds from beginners to experienced riders so that they can feel the fun of maneuvering -a fundamental element of motorcycle riding. A rider should be able to use the bike casually in everyday life, go touring at times, and enjoy a sporty ride at other times.

More specific objectives included the following:

A frame that will realize agile handling and steady maneuverability characteristics as a 250cc full-cowl sport model

A sporty riding position that takes into account a level of comfort and ease of handling that will satisfy customers around the world

A secure suspension capable of supporting the ride that the rider wants and maximizing bike performance

The first introduction in its class of Combined ABS, which provides customers with a sense of security

Riding Position

The riding position takes into account the body size and shape of customers from a global standpoint to broaden the range of riders to include people of small and large stature, so that as many people as possible can fully enjoy the bike. Furthermore, a sporty riding position that is stress-free and makes it easier to handle the bike was realized by considering how people use bikes in various countries, including touring from a congested urban area over highways to suburban areas and taking a sports ride on a winding road. The seat has realized an easy reach to the ground that provides a sense of security through optimization of its hardness and shape. By not hindering the movement of the rider or passenger, the functional shape allows them to enjoy even a long ride in comfort and ease.

Frame Dimensions

With the CB300F, Honda aimed at straightforward handling that is agile and yet provides a sense of security. Toward that end, agility and high turning performance were obtained by employing a newly developed compact engine, shortening the wheelbase, and optimizing the front-rear weight distribution while concentrating heavy components at the vehicle’s center of gravity. At the same time, weight reduction, straightforward handling with a sense of security, and reduced vehicle vibration were achieved by optimizing the position of the engine mount and the frame rigidity balance.

Rear Suspension

Adopting a Pro-link suspension allows a light and more compact rear suspension to be realized. This suspension demonstrates progressive characteristics (increases/decreases occur gradually) and high road tractability through ratio optimization.

This Pro-Link suspension makes the ride more stable by moderating damping force characteristics for a softer ride during short travel and by boosting the damping force characteristics for sure damping with a long stroke length during extended travel. In this way, the suspension features damping force characteristics that change progressively, and having a compact suspension layout near the center of gravity contributes greatly to improved driving stability. The Pro-Link rear suspension has a functional advantage in that the cushion stroke length increases at a greater rate in proportion to the stroke length of the rear axle portion. That is, this mechanism has progressive characteristics (increases/decreases occur gradually); the cushion arm and connecting rod function so that the cushion stroke is shorter in the range where the rear axle does not move much and gets longer as the rear axle movement reaches a higher range.

In addition, the five-position preload adjuster can be adjusted to respond to the rider’s preferences, riding in tandem, and other demands. Proper toughness along with high rigidity has been achieved through a 574mm rear swing arm and 60 × 30mm pipes with square sections. Because the plastic inner fender also serves as the chain case, high design quality and weight reduction were achieved while reducing splashes of mud and chipping on the vehicle body, rear cushion and ABS modulator.

Brakes

The brake design takes into account all types of roads and riding environments in the world. A more powerful braking force is secured by installing a front brake consisting of a two-pot floating caliper attached to a floating disc with large 296mm diameter and a rear brake consisting of a large diameter, one-pot caliper attached to a 220mm diameter disc. A newly-developed resin-molded brake pad with the same effectiveness as a sintered pad has been introduced to realize a brake system that makes the rider feel secure whenever they use it during an urban ride, long-distance touring, or a sports ride. In addition, for the first time in the world as a 250cc motorcycle, specifications have been set to incorporate Combined ABS, which combines a front/rear wheel interlocking brake system with an anti-lock brake system (ABS). This Combined ABS is a Honda-original brake system in which the front/rear wheel interlocking brake generates a braking force ideally distributed between front and rear wheels, and high deceleration is obtained when the foot brake is applied, but this system assumes a sports ride when the hand brake is applied (on the front wheel), thus allowing the front brake to function independently. Furthermore, the anti-lock brake system limits unexpected vehicle body movements due to wheel lock and releases riders from excessive tension even during sudden braking or under slippery road surface conditions such as rain. Thus, surer braking force can be secured with normal operation.

ABS Brakes / CB300F

The combined ABS model is equipped with a three-pot caliper in front, front/rear wheel speed sensors that detect the condition of the vehicle, and an ABS modulator with a built-in ECU. The ECU processes information from wheel speed sensors and controls the feed of hydraulic pressure to the caliper. Advanced braking performance was achieved in step with maneuverability by placing heavy items such as ABS modulator near the center of gravity of vehicle body. The combined brake system is designed to assist braking operation. The basics of braking concurrently operating the hand brake (front wheel) and the foot brake (rear wheel) according to the circumstances should not change. ABS is not designed to shorten braking distance, but assist braking operation. Therefore, just like with vehicles without ABS, it is necessary to follow save riding practices such as decelerating sufficiently before cornering. The system does not control reckless driving.

Is the 2017 CB300F the perfect bike for everyone? Nope. Is the CB300F perfect? Nope. It is hard to find faults on the CB300F as Honda took what was wrong with the CBR250R and fixed it to create the CB300F. Could the CB300F use more high-end adjustable suspension? Yes but that is me being picky with my background of sport bikes and what I use them for which is track-duty and carving the mountains etc to where I need and can utilize that adjustability. In the grand-scheme of things, most people that are eyeing the CB300F won’t ever need and or want to touch the adjustment knobs on their suspension and if Honda threw that money at better suspension for the 1% of people out there it would upset the majority because the bike would then demand a higher price-tag. For those of us that want a 250 cc / 300 cc ‘super sport’ bike that takes this small package and throws more horsepower and high-end suspension at it, we all need to join hands and pray that Honda brings the All-NEW 2017 CBR250RR to the USA haha! Could the CB300F use a slight horsepower increase? In my opinion, yes it could but what’s the old saying “You can’t have your cake and eat it too”. Honda couldn’t give it too much more power though as then you wouldn’t have a large enough performance gap between the CBR / CB 500cc family which would then eat into their sales numbers. Only you can answer if the CBR300R has enough power to keep you happy. If you’re worried about it not having enough power, there’s an easy way to solve that – find a CB300F or even a CBR250R and take one for a test ride. Yes the CBR250R is down on horsepower but it’s going to give you a very good idea of what you’ll be working with on the CB300F. If you find the 30 horsepower isn’t enough to keep you happy but want to stick with Honda, I would recommend you check out the CB500F as you’re going to get an extra 20 horsepower! That may not seem like a lot if you’re coming from the ‘car world’ but on motorcycles you’ll find out that 20 horsepower is quite the increase in performance. I wouldn’t start with the CB300F and modify it thinking you’re going to increase the horsepower enough to keep you happy and you’ll burn through quite the large stack of cash only to find out the power gains are very minimal at best. Here’s a little bit of math to think about, you could drop $1,000 into your CB300F to maybe and I do mean maybe gain 5-6 horsepower whereas you could’ve spent just a little more than that $1,000 and got into the 500cc CBR500R or CB500F from Honda (CB500X if you’re into the adventure style bikes) and got that extra 20 horsepower right off the bat and it’s still bone-stock and reliable as ever because you haven’t tampered with it yet. I’m getting a little long-winded again like I did at the start of this page when I meant to just touch on this topic haha.

Thanks for checking out my Detailed Review on the 2017 CB300F! I hope the information was of some help while you research the CB300F. If so, please take a second and slap that Like Button and Share as well as browse around the site and see if anything else catches your eyes. Thanks again guys!

* Disclaimer: This is all my opinion and nothing more, take it for what it is and it’s nothing more than motorcycle banter from an enthusiast that likes to ramble on from time to time.

2017 CB300F / CB300F ABS Specfications

Model

CB300F ABS

CB300F

Engine Type

286cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke

Bore x Stroke

76.0mm x 63.0mm

Compression Ratio

10.7:1

Induction

PGM-FI; 38mm throttle body

Ignition

Computer-controlled digital transistorized w/ electronic advance

Transmission

Six-Speed

Final Drive

520 chain

Valve Train

DOHC; four valves per cyclinder

SUSPENSION

Front

37mm telescopic fork; 4.65 in. travel

Rear

Pro-Link® single shock; 4.07 in. travel

BRAKES

Front

296mm single disc; ABS

296mm single disc

Rear

220mm single disc; ABS

220mm single disc

TIRES

Front

110/70-17

Rear

140/70-17

Rake (Caster Angle)

25º 30′

Trail

98mm (3.9 in.)

Seat Height

30.7mm

Ground Clearance

5.9 in.

Wheelbase

54.3 in.

Fuel Capacity

3.4 gal.

Color

Matte Silver

Red

Curb Weight*

348 lbs.

*Includes all standard equipment, required fluids and full tank of fuel—ready to ride
Meets current EPA standards
Models sold in California meet current CARB standards and may differ slightly due to emissions equipment